SAN JOSE, Calif. (AP) — A former Santa Clara County supervisor has pleaded guilty to a dozen charges that he used that he used campaign donations and taxpayer funds to fuel what has been described as a gambling addiction.
George Shirakawa Jr., entered his pleas to five felony and seven misdemeanor charges including perjury and misappropriation of public funds during an appearance in a San Jose courtroom on Monday.
After repeatedly denying allegations, the 51-year-old Shirakawa admitted earlier this month that he used campaign and county funds for personal use.
Shirakawa resigned as county supervisor on March 1 as part of a deal with county prosecutors that will have him sentenced to jail for one year. As part of the deal, he will also be banned from holding public office.
Prosecutors say Shirakawa moved $130,000 in and out of campaign accounts and public funds and spent most of it at casinos.
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